CVE-2022-39260 : What You Need to Know

Git is an open-source, scalable, distributed revision control system. A vulnerability in the

git shell

allows a malicious actor to trigger remote code execution by exploiting a heap overflow. This CVE affects Git versions prior to 2.30.6, 2.31.5, 2.32.4, 2.33.5, 2.34.5, 2.35.5, 2.36.3, and 2.37.4. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to the latest patched versions to mitigate the risk.

Understanding CVE-2022-39260

Git is susceptible to Remote Code Execution via a heap overflow in the

git shell

, impacting certain versions. Understanding the implications and methods for prevention is crucial.

What is CVE-2022-39260?

In versions prior to 2.30.6, 2.31.5, 2.32.4, 2.33.5, 2.34.5, 2.35.5, 2.36.3, and 2.37.4, a vulnerability in Git allows for arbitrary heap writes through improper use of an

int

to represent the number of entries in an array. By overflowing the return value, an attacker can achieve remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2022-39260

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary heap writes and remote code execution on the victim's machine. However, users must first grant

git shell

access to be vulnerable to this attack. Patches have been released to address this issue.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-39260

Understanding the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism is essential to protect systems.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper representation of array entries using an

int

, allowing for malicious heap overflow and subsequent remote code execution via

execv()

.

Affected Systems and Versions

Git versions earlier than 2.30.6, 2.31.5, 2.32.4, 2.33.5, 2.34.5, 2.35.5, 2.36.3, and 2.37.4 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by intentionally overflowing the return value in the array, leading to arbitrary heap writes and potential remote code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps to address the vulnerability and adopting long-term security practices are crucial to safeguard against potential threats.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to update Git to patched versions 2.30.6, 2.31.5, 2.32.4, 2.33.5, 2.34.5, 2.35.5, 2.36.3, or 2.37.4 to mitigate the risk of remote code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforcing security best practices, restricting unnecessary access, and monitoring for suspicious activities are essential for maintaining a secure Git environment.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying updates, security patches, and staying informed about the latest security advisories is crucial to protect against emerging threats.